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A-10s bid farewell to Davis-Monthan, paving the way for new capabilities

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For nearly five decades, the iconic A-10 Thunderbolt II, affectionately nicknamed the “Warthog,” has been a defining symbol of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. But after serving with distinction in close air support missions worldwide, the time has come for these legendary aircraft to step aside. Their retirement marks a significant chapter in Davis-Monthan’s history, paving the way for the integration of next-generation technology and expanded capabilities.

An A-10C Thunderbolt II, aircraft taxis towards the 309 Aircraft Maintenance and Regeneration Group at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., Feb. 6, 2024. Davis-Monthan will divest its entire fleet of A-10s within 3-5 years. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Nicholas Ross)

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U.S. Army procures 600 Coyote 2C Interceptors

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In a move echoing the urgency exposed by the recent attack on U.S. forces in Jordan, the U.S. Army awarded a $75 million contract to RTX Corporation on Jan. 16 for the production of 600 Coyote 2C Interceptors. This swift action, leveraging the Office of the Secretary of Defense’s rapid acquisition authority and completed within 30 days, underscores the critical need to strengthen counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) capabilities following the tragic loss of three American soldiers on Jan. 28.

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Blue Spear anti-ship missile delivered to Estonia

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The Estonian Defense Forces welcomed the arrival of the Blue Spear mobile anti-ship missile system this week, marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s coastal defense capabilities. This advanced system, developed jointly by Israel and Singapore, delivers long-range precision strike capabilities against both sea and land targets within a 290-kilometer radius.

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First USMC F-35B squadron on East Coast achieves IOC

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The 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW) has announced a significant milestone with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 542 (VMFA-542) achieving Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for the F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. This achievement marks a major step forward for the U.S. Marine Corps’ operational deployment of the F-35B on the East Coast, solidifying its role as a vital asset in expeditionary warfare.

A U.S. Marine Corps pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542 taxis an F-35B Lightning II jet at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Dec. 28, 2023. VMFA-542 pilots conducted routine flight operations to maintain proficiency and achieve training objectives in support of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing missions. The F-35B Lightning II is designed to meet an advanced threat while improving lethality, survivability, and supportability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Daisha Ramirez)

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Hellenic Navy to take delivery of first three MH-60R helicopters

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The Hellenic Navy’s maritime muscle is set to receive a significant boost with the arrival of the versatile MH-60R helicopter. Testing of the first three aircraft, completed in December 2023, paves the way for their deployment to Greece aboard U.S. Navy transport planes later this year. Four additional helicopters will follow in 2025, finalizing the seven-aircraft purchase.


Photo: Lockheed Martin
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